NAF air strikes k!ll ‘over 10 ISWAP fighters’ in north-east operation

NAF air strikes kill ‘over 10 ISWAP fighters’ in north-east operation

Missile strikes from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) reportedly killed more than 10 terrorists linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), in coordinated attacks across parts of Borno and Yobe states, including the Timbuktu Triangle.

The air component of Operation Hadin Kai, acting on real-time intelligence gathered by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), carried out the precision strikes on Tuesday.

According to Zagazola Makama, a publication focused on the Lake Chad region, surveillance first identified a group of about 10 ISWAP fighters — armed with motorcycles and bicycles — under a large, thick tree along the Ambia Tasha, Ambia Sheruri, Ambia Turo, and Shangamaru axis in Yobe, with signs that others were hidden in a nearby canopy.

After authorisation, the air component engaged the target with precision munitions, destroying terrorist assets and motorcycles.

Zagazola said post-strike assessment confirmed significant casualties, with only one individual seen escaping the impact zone.

The publication said the operations are part of ongoing efforts to restrict ISWAP’s movement, disrupt their supply lines, and protect communities in the north-east.

Military sources said aerial surveillance and targeted strikes — in close coordination with ground troops — will continue until the remaining threats are eliminated.

Earlier this month, air strikes carried out across parts of the north-east and north-west destroyed terrorist hideouts, eliminated weapons and logistics, and killed several fighters.

In a statement, Ehimen Ejodame, director of public relations and information at NAF headquarters, said the operations were conducted between January 1 and 2, through joint task forces under Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Fasan Yamma Sector 2.